Grahame Morris MP

Easington MP Grahame Morris spoke of a ‘new start’ for a Peterlee factory as Vbites announce that food production will recommence on the former Walkers Crisp’s site within the next three months.

Vbites, owned by businesswoman, Heather Mills, took over the 180,000sq foot site in November, a year after PepsiCo closed the Walkers Crisps factory with the loss of more than 350 jobs.

Vbites are now hiring staff and are overseeing the fit-out ready for the manufacturing of Vbites’ new range of vegan sausages and burgers made from plant-based proteins.

Vbites hope to employ around 300 workers, and Ms Mills has reported that six former workers from Walkers Crisps, including the new factory Manager, have been taken on by Vbites.

Easington MP Grahame Morris said:

“The opening of Vbites will be a new start for the factory. I am delighted at the confidence that has been shown in Peterlee, by an industry leader in one of the fastest growing sectors in the food market.

I look forward to seeing the development of Vbites, Peterlee, and food production resuming on the site.”